The legislation allows active duty military personnel to obtain a commercial drivers license in the state they serve or received military training in, even if the state is not their permanent residence.

The legislation addresses the shortage of truck drivers in the country and the large number of veterans looking for work.

“At a time when unemployment is too high, particularly among our veterans, this common-sense legislation will remove barriers for our American heroes to begin pursuing American jobs and position them for life after the military,” said U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-2), who co-sponsored the bill.

According to the Department of Defense and the Department of Transportation, the residency issue has been a barrier for military personnel in obtaining commercial drivers licenses.

Currently, only legal residents of a state can get their licenses.

Military personnel, however, receive their vehicle training in locations other than their homes of record.

The American Legion and American Trucking Association both endorse the bill.

“As a former trucker myself, I’m proud to have supported this legislation that is a win-win for our military personnel and the economy,” LoBiondo said.